Provincial Convention 2010: Spiritual Development Oral Report

Submitted by: Carol Penno

Madam President What a joyful standing committee to chair, One that draws our hearts and minds closer to God our Father, Jesus, and Mary his Mother. Spiritual growth is the very heart of the League and the essence of its existence. It’s an essential part of a meeting. Before I began writing this report I prayed the chairpersons prayer asking that I might say the right words. We have an interesting concept this year to make our reports meaningful to you. I will outline the duties of the Chairperson and give an example taken from the reports I received from Diocesan.

Everyone kept spiritual growth of members at the forefront at their meetings. The National Theme “Women of Peace and Hope” was utilized through song, prayer and deeds. The National webpage as well as Provincial webpage are becoming popular sites to visit for information. Some councils attributed attending conventions at all levels as a great way to enhance spiritual growth. In this year of the priest, councils are being extra supportive of their priests. And during this convention you will have the opportunity to have your very own priest to pray for.

In one diocese they have a spiritual spa, a way to surround yourself with God and provide relaxation for your soul. Speak to the Kamloops Diocese to get more information.  Acts of Kindness in giving assistance to caregivers coping with a terminally ill family member can easily be given. Simple gestures of helping are much appreciated. Suggestions are in the Activities Kit. If you have the inclination there are Palliative care and Hospice courses so you can be properly trained in this compassionate work. Extend a Hand in friendship to someone new in the parish and gain a new friend.

Study of Catholic teachings is a wonderful way to learn more about your faith. There are many courses available to contribute to faith enrichment. Retreats, bible study groups, reading and discussion of papal encyclicals are a good place to start. Promote EWTN and Salt and Light TV.

Role of Women in the Church Chairpersons need to read the handbook for this category, it is not to describe all the work we do in our parishes but rather a study of Women in the Church. For instance, read the story of Dorothy Day a modern Saint. , Read books that speak about women in the scriptures, take a leadership role in your parish and become a member of the parish liturgy team.

Evangelization and Mission Assistance We are called to share our talents and bounty and are very generous, some councils band together to support a group of Catholic high school students who go to Mexico each year to build houses for the poor. Catholic Missions in Canada is in great need. We must care for our priests ,sisters and laypersons helping out in the northern missions of our own country.

Who do you say are the greatest support for the parishes in lay ministries?? Right, its us, the members of the CWL We serve in all the ministries available to us. Lay formation classes have been attended by a number of members. This is a commitment as its weekly sessions over a period of time.

Ecumenism and interfaith endeavours. Most report hosting and attending “World day of Prayer’ services. Taking part in the prayer for Christian Unity is important as well. Some took part in Easter sunrise Celebrations. Fun things were having a prayer breakfast, ecumenical lunches, pancake suppers and fun nights.

Reporting Deceased Members was better this year. Most reported their deceased correctly. A few councils thought that crossing the name off the Membership list when submitting the current year’s dues and writing deceased beside it would suffice in notifying National. NOT! By now everyone should know to send one copy of the deceased members form to National, including name, address, membership number, council code and signed by the President or Spiritual Chairperson and their phone number. National has installed a new program whereby councils can access the membership system to check Deceased members reports. Members no longer in the database will not be reflected in the report.

Praying for our deceased members is a charitable thing to do. We have promised these ladies our prayers when they became members and quite often this is why they retain membership in declining years as there will be someone praying for them and their name will be inscribed in the Book of Life.

In closing I thank Marianna for gifting me with Spiritual Development, I have enjoyed it very much. I thank my team, the Diocesan Spiritual development chairpersons.